Falls Police to Install Surveillance Cameras

NIAGARA FALLS, NY - Over the next few weeks Niagara Falls Police say 26 cameras will be installed in areas considered as high crime on the city's East Side.

Chief John Chella says one place in particular is at 19th and Niagara Streets.

"We're going to let people know that, that general area is now under camera surveillance 24-7 by the police department," said Chella.

Officers back at the station will monitor the cameras from a series of TV screens.

"We may not be able to react quickly, but it is being taped for any evidentiary material we can collect for prosecution," said Chella.

So far the city has spent about $250k to pay for and install the cameras. Chella said the money comes from community development funds, and both state and federal grants, including Homeland Security.

"We're looking to spend probably 50 to 60 and as money becomes available we'll pick the hot spots of the city and put a camera there," said the Chief.

Chella tells us property crime rates such as burglaries and car break-ins are on the rise. The department has been taking notes on the successful use of surveillance cameras especially when it comes to fighting crime in Buffalo.

"What we've tried to learn from Buffalo is the placement and what we can garner from the cameras, and obviously in the last couple weeks you've seen the success of the Buffalo surveillance cameras," said Chella.